The Diaspora Farmers Association is a pioneering organisation dedicated to empowering and mobilising the Ghanaian diaspora to actively participate in and contribute to Ghana's agricultural transformation. Formed with a clear mandate, the association addresses critical challenges faced by diasporans interested in agricultural investment in their homeland. Our core objectives are to foster a supportive environment for diaspora farmers, ensure secure and transparent land acquisition, and collectively advocate for policies that incentivise agricultural investment and growth.
Ghana's agricultural sector is a cornerstone of its economy, contributing significantly to the GDP and providing employment for a large portion of the workforce. The government of Ghana has recognised the immense potential of diaspora engagement in this vital sector and has initiated various policies and incentives to attract investment. However, diasporans often face hurdles such as navigating complex land acquisition processes, understanding local agricultural policies, and accessing relevant support systems. The Diaspora Farmers Association aims to bridge these gaps, providing a unified platform for members to overcome these challenges and thrive in Ghana's agricultural landscape.
Our efforts are focused on three key pillars:
I. Lobbying and Advocacy: We actively engage with the government of Ghana to advocate for favourable policies, including incentives, port duty waivers on members' farming equipment, and agricultural policies that motivate diasporans to invest in farming. Recent government pronouncements and initiatives, such as the waiver of import duties on agri-processing machinery, demonstrate a commitment to supporting the agricultural sector, and we aim to ensure these benefits extend effectively to diaspora farmers.
II. Secure Farmland Acquisition: We facilitate the sourcing of legitimate and productive farmlands for our members. This crucial service is designed to eliminate the risks of farmland scams and ensure fair pricing, providing peace of mind and a solid foundation for agricultural ventures. The challenge of secure land tenure is a significant barrier for many potential investors, and our association is committed to de-risking this process for our members.
III. Collective Strength and Influence: By uniting diaspora farmers, we aim to become a stronger, more visible, and influential force within Ghana's agricultural sector. This collective strength allows us to negotiate more effectively, share knowledge and resources, and contribute significantly to national food security and economic development. Our goal is to ensure that the voice of diaspora farmers is heard and considered in national agricultural planning and policy-making.
Through these concerted efforts, the Diaspora Farmers Association is poised to unlock the full potential of diaspora investment in Ghana's agriculture, creating a mutually beneficial ecosystem for both investors and the nation.
Vision
To be the leading catalyst for sustainable agricultural development in Ghana, driven by the expertise, investment, and passion of the global Ghanaian diaspora, ensuring food security, economic prosperity, and a vibrant agricultural future for the nation.
Mission
The Diaspora Farmers Association is committed to:
1. Advocating for policies that create a conducive and incentivising environment for diaspora agricultural investment in Ghana.
2. Facilitating secure, transparent, and equitable access to farmlands for our members, mitigating risks and fostering trust.
3. Empowering diaspora farmers through knowledge sharing, capacity building, and access to modern agricultural technologies and practices.
4. Unifying the efforts of diaspora farmers to amplify their collective voice and impact within Ghana’s agricultural sector.
5. Contributing to Ghana’s food security, economic growth, and sustainable development through responsible and productive agricultural ventures.